2025/26 Executive Candidates
UMGSA 2025-2026 Executive Nominations
See below for a list of executive profiles. The candidates names are listed below in alphabetical order by first name and are sorted by the position they have applied for, with their slate name in bold. The election takes place solely online and you will receive a link in your University of Manitoba email account that will connect you to your ballot.
President & Senator:
Timilehin Oluwajuyitan (Food Science, Ph.D)
Vice-President Academic & Senator:
Israel Abejoye (Kinesiology and Recreation, M)
Lamia Mahzabin (Natural Resources Institute, M)
Vice-President External & Senator:
Armin Aghajani (Electrical Engineering, Ph.D)
Vice-President Equity & Inclusion:
Peggy Wu (Log/Supp Ch Mgmt, M)
Vice-President Events & Clubs:
Diwan Oulai (Peace & Conflict Studies, M)
President & Senator
Timilehin Oluwajuyitan (Food Science, Ph.D)
Hello Bison!
My name is Timilehin Oluwajuyitan (Timi). I am a PhD candidate in the Food and Human Nutritional Sciences Department. My PhD work focuses on extracting and purifying proteins and peptides, which may serve as health-promoting nutritional tools to remedy diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, kidney failure, and dementia (Alzheimer’s).
I have gained broad experience in student leadership and volunteering roles. This includes two term UMGSA vice president service and support (2024/2025 and 2023/2024); University of Manitoba Graduate Student Award Assessment Committee (2022/ 2023); Graduate Student Representative of Food Science and Technology Department, Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), Nigeria (2017 – 2022); Secretary student social and welfare committee, FUTA Student Union (2012 – 2015), during my first- and second-degree program from home country (Nigeria). This and many more have made me interact with students on different platforms, seeing the daily challenges.
It is collaboratively that we can instigate transformation and enhance the academic experience for all graduate students at the university. It is this aspiration to which I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing the roles of President and Senator. Nevertheless, the University comprises a heterogeneous network of students from many ethnicities and cultures, making inclusivity important. Should I be elected president and senator, I guarantee establishing a conducive environment that facilitates our daily academic endeavours. As a team player, good listener, and communicator, I will ensure adequate service to all graduate students.
Vice-President Academic & Senator
Israel Abejoye (Kinesiology and Recreation, M)
As a seasoned academic leader with a passion for excellence in teaching, research, and student success, I would be excited to serve as the Vice President Academic Affairs and Senator. With years of experience in students’ union activities during my undergrad, I possess a deep understanding of the complexities of higher education and a proven track record of driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and promoting student-centered decision making.
My vision for academic affairs is centered around creating an inclusive, vibrant, and supportive learning environment that empowers students to reach their full potential. I am committed to advancing academic excellence, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhancing student success through data-informed decision-making and strategic resource allocation.
As a collaborative leader, I thrive in environments where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective goals are pursued. I am excited about the prospect of joining the UMGSA and contributing my expertise, passion, and energy to advancing the University’s academic mission and vision.
Lamia Mahzabin (Natural Resources Institute, M)
Hello fellows!
I am Lamia Mahzabin. I am pursuing my Masters in Natural Resources Management at the Natural Resources Institute.
I believe that academics is an integral part of graduate students who should strive to get the best possible academic experience. We should not only focus on our coursework but also look for opportunities to engage in research and development. It is important to find purpose in your studies so that you can contribute meaningfully to society. I would love to serve my position as the Vice-President, Academic Affairs and Senator by helping the graduate students learn and apply strategies to improve their overall academic performance. My duty will be to enhance the learning experience of graduate students through mentorships, workshops, study, and discussion sessions. I would also encourage the graduate students to apply for the scholarships and awards, which are not only rewarding but also great for financing their education. We can work together to make the most out of our graduate life at the University of Manitoba.
I look forward to serving you and contributing my experience and expertise towards enhancing your academic life!
Vice-President External & Senator
Armin Aghajani (Electrical Engineering, Ph.D)
Hello fellow graduate students!
My name is Armin (he/they). I am a Ph.D. candidate in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, and I am excited to run for the position of UMGSA Vice-President External & Senator for 2025-26.
My focus will be on three key initiatives to improve student life. First, I will ensure the restoration of international health insurance coverage moves forward by following up with the Ministry of Education and keeping students informed. Second, I will work to finalize and implement the legal care coverage within student health insurance, ensuring that it is accessible to all. Lastly, I will continue to advocate for graduate student concerns, ensuring that their rights and well-being remain a priority.
As an advocate for graduate student issues and concerns, I collaborate with university administration, faculty, and other stakeholders to ensure that graduate students are well-represented and that their voices are heard. Overall, my goal is to ensure that graduate students have a positive and productive experience during their time at the University of Manitoba.
Vice-President Equity & Inclusion
Peggy Wu (Supply Chain Management & Logistics, M)
Hello, fellow graduate students! I am Peggy Wu, a graduate student in the Master of Supply Chain Management & Logistics program at the I.H. Asper School of Business. As your candidate for Vice-President Equity & Inclusion, I am committed to cultivating a campus where every voice is valued and every student feels empowered.
My experience as an international student has taught me the importance of being truly seen and heard. I firmly believe that equity, diversity, and inclusion are the cornerstones of a vibrant academic community. Drawing on my experience in coordination and cross-functional teamwork, I am passionate about breaking down barriers and fostering continuous improvement across our campus.
If elected, I will engage diverse student groups and develop initiatives that promote inclusive dialogue. I plan to collaborate with various campus communities and student support organizations—such as the International Student Centre, the Indigenous Student Centre, the UM Black Alliance, and others—to ensure our community reflects the rich diversity of ideas and backgrounds at the University of Manitoba. Together, we can create a more supportive and equitable environment where every graduate student has the opportunity to thrive.
Thank you for considering my candidacy. I’m eager to serve and collaborate with you all to build on our strong foundation and create an even more vibrant, inclusive UMGSA community that amplifies every voice.
Vice-President Events & Clubs
Diwan Oulai (Peace & Conflict Studies, M)
Throughout my academic journey and various experiences, I have developed a strong passion for social cohesion and community engagement and gained a deep understanding of the importance of creating inclusive and supportive environments that foster student well-being and success.
With a strong background in leadership and volunteering, I have had the opportunity to organize, facilitate, and coordinate numerous events and activities that promote student engagement and community building. My experiences include serving as VP External for the African Graduate Students Association, Interim Executive Member for the Peace and Conflict Studies Students Association, International Student Officer for Lancaster Ghana Student Council, Volunteer and Active Listening Counsellor for AFS Global Choice Canada, and Young Adults Coordinator at the Grace Communion Winnipeg, among others. These roles have not only honed my skills in event planning and management but also given me valuable insight into the needs and concerns of students. As your Vice-President of Events and Clubs, my vision is to create a dynamic, supportive, and student-focused community that thrives on engagement, participation, wellness, and empowerment. I am excited about the prospect of serving as your Vice-President of Events and Clubs and contributing to the creation of a vibrant and supportive community that enhances the overall student experience.